Lanyard Attachment Detection Across Dielectric Gaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aerial devices lack reliable lanyard attachment detection systems, especially across dielectric gaps, and do not provide anti-tie-down functionality to ensure safe operations and prevent errors or tampering.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a processor, lanyard attachment device with a moveable element and sensor, and computer-readable media that detects the attachment state of the lanyard and controls hydraulic fluid flow to manage aerial device operations, including anti-tie-down functionality for error or tampering detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If typical aerial devices provide lanyard attachment devices at utility platforms, then operators can attach themselves to the platform for safety, but reliable communication of attachment status to lower components is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection device positioned at the utility platform that acts as a mediator between the lanyard attachment status and the base control system. This detection device senses the attachment state and transmits signals across the dielectric gap to the base, enabling reliable communication of attachment status without direct electrical connection through the insulating barrier.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or direct electrical connection systems with a sensor-based detection system that uses electromagnetic signals to communicate attachment status. The sensor detects the presence or absence of the lanyard and converts this mechanical state into an electrical signal that can be transmitted across the dielectric gap to the base control system.
2Reliability
If typical aerial devices maintain electrical insulation across dielectric gaps, then safety is improved, but reliable communication of lanyard attachment status across the gap is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The detection device serves as an intermediary that bridges the dielectric gap by converting mechanical attachment states into transmittable signals. It receives the attachment status information from the utility platform side and transmits it to the base side, maintaining the dielectric insulation while enabling reliable communication of the attachment status.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the lanyard attachment status through the detection device and transmitting this information to the base control system. This feedback loop enables real-time awareness of attachment status, allowing the control system to respond appropriately while maintaining electrical insulation across the dielectric gap.
3Measurement precision
If lanyard attachment detection devices are installed, then attachment status can be detected, but anti-tie-down functionality to prevent errors or tampering is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by implementing anti-tie-down functionality that proactively prevents tampering or erroneous operation before they can cause safety issues. The control system monitors the detection device signals and automatically limits aerial device operations when it detects potential tampering or errors, counteracting malicious or accidental actions before they compromise safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The feedback mechanism continuously monitors the detection device output and the state of the moveable element. When the system detects anomalies, inconsistent signals, or attempts to tamper with the detection device, it triggers protective responses by limiting device operations. This feedback loop ensures that measurement precision is maintained while simultaneously providing security against errors or tampering.
4Measurement precision
If the moveable element detects lanyard attachment state, then attachment status is determined, but operation limitation based on detection results is not implemented
Solution Approach 1:
The control system uses feedback from the sensor detecting the moveable element's state to automatically adjust device operations. When the sensor detects that the lanyard is properly attached (moveable element in second state), full operations are permitted. When attachment is not detected (moveable element in first state), the system automatically limits operations to ensure safety, creating a dynamic response based on real-time detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts operational constraints based on the detected attachment state. Rather than imposing fixed limitations, the control system modifies operational freedom in real-time according to the sensor feedback. This dynamic approach maintains measurement precision while optimizing ease of operation - when safety conditions are met, operations are free; when conditions are not met, limitations are automatically applied.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures reliable lanyard attachment detection and communication across dielectric gaps, limiting aerial device operations when errors or tampering is detected, enhancing safety and operational integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor connected to the moveable element for detecting a state of the moveable element
Implementation Method 2
transmitting a second signal to at least one actuator for controlling flow of a hydraulic fluid to control the utility platform
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for detecting attachment of a lanyard at a utility platform of an aerial device are described. In some embodiments, a lanyard attachment device is disposed on a utility platform. The lanyard attachment device may comprise a sensor detecting when a lanyard is attached to the lanyard attachment device. In some embodiments, the utility platform is separated from a base of the aerial device by a dielectric gap, and a light signal is indicative of the state of the lanyard attachment device. Furthermore, anti-tie-down functionality may be used to detect error or tampering of the lanyard attachment device.